Julie Mehretu unveils new commission for Obama Presidential Center’s Museum

The Obama Foundation has announced the installation of a monumental commission by Julie Mehretu. Entitled Uprising of the Sun, the work comprises an 83 foot tall painted glass window on the north façade of the Obama Presidential Center’s Museum building in Chicago, which is due to open in 2026.

Marking the artist’s first work made with glass, Uprising of the Sun reflects on the historical context of President Obama’s legacy and is inspired by his remarks at the 50th anniversary of the marches from Montgomery to Selma.

‘Julie learned at a young age how access to public space can help shape and affect people's lives,’ said President Obama. ‘For her to be a part of what we hope will be a transformative institution that will be unique in how it brings so many different people, ideas, and resources together is a wonderful opportunity for us.’